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Media Release: Ride to Worship Week a great success

Hundreds of people from faith communities across Australia answered the call to leave their car at home and cycle, walk, share a lift or catch public transport to their religious activities during Ride to Worship Week (9-15 October 2010).

Hundreds of people from faith communities across Australia answered the call to leave their car at home and cycle, walk, share a lift or catch public transport to their religious activities during Ride to Worship Week (9-15 October 2010).

Ride to Worship Week is an initiative of multi-faith network the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARRCC). ARRCC President Thea Ormerod said strong support for the inaugural event indicates that many religious people care deeply about climate change.

“Climate change is a profoundly moral issue,” Ormerod said. “Participants holding a diversity of religious views were united in a shared sense of purpose – to take action on this most pressing issue of our time – climate change.”

Worshippers participated in Ride to Worship as individuals. The event was also trialled with ten faith communities across Melbourne, Sydney and the ACT.

“Activities held during the week included a ‘best-dressed cyclist’ competition, a Sunday School walk to the park and a barbecue to raise money for the gardens surrounding a church,” Pepper said.

“Importantly, faith leaders took the opportunity to speak about caring for the Earth in their sermons and talks.

“Some faith communities also participated in the 350.org International Day of Climate Action on 10 October. They contributed to a global photo petition demonstrating that they are taking action on climate change and calling for bold political leadership.”

Ormerod encouraged people from all faith communities to continue riding to their worship activities throughout the year.

“Cycling to worship is a simple and pleasurable way to help slow global warming and improve your physical and mental health,” Ormerod said.

“I encourage all people of faith to look at ways to reduce your carbon footprint and care for the Earth.”